Into the Wild

Headed down to Oak Creek Canyon to finally get on a route that I had put on the top of my "to do list"...

Into the Wild

The route was established by a couple of my climbing friends so I was fired up to give it a go. I was able to rally a couple of climbing friends and head down for a party of 3 late afternoon ascent...

Since we knew that the route would be in tremendous heat until the early afternoon we decided to wait until the afternoon to head down. Luckily we did because the temps were high and the sun was unrelenting. Since we just hit the Summer solstice the sun was high and beaming directly down on us. HOOTTT!!

John and John
racking up

The approach is one of the easiest of Sedona, only about 15 minutes from West Fork although parking at West Fork is $10 now for parking. Highway robbery!!!

After the quick approach through West Fork we hit the first pitch. It was luckily just hidden from the sun even though the first ledge was still cooking. After busting up the first pitch we were stuck in the sun... we moved quick and found the shade for the rest of the climb.

Base of Pitch 1

Amazing climbing. Technical and balancy.... Loved it.
Thanks to Kelly Canyon for teaching me all I need to know about Coconino Sandstone climbing.

Bailed off the ledge and were home before sunset.

Back at the base
ready to head home.